Marin History Watch: 'Festal Time' in Tomales

On Jan. 7, 1875, the North Pacific Coast Railroad (pictured in 1883) was cheered as it carried its first passengers — 300 dignitaries — on its new route from Sausalito to Tomales. According to the Journal, "Signs of welcome and rejoicing were given by the people along the line. But if San Anselmo, San Geronimo, Nicasio, Olema and Marshall sounded the notes of welcome, the honor of outdoing them all was reserved for Tomales, for when the train came in sight of the town the hilltops were lined with people, flags were flying, the whole region had the appearance of a gay and festal time, while cheers of triumph, good will, and rejoicing swelled over the hills." Regular passenger service began Jan. 11.

History Watch is provided by the Marin History Museum, www.marinhistory.org, and appears Tuesday in the Generations section. Images included in History Watch are available for purchase by calling 382-0770 or by email at photoservices@marinhistory.org